Chopin Concert 2015

by: Jean Joka

On Sunday, March 1, 2015, the annual Chopin Concert of the Polish
Heritage Society of Philadelphia was held at Holy Family University
Technology and Education Center located in Philadelphia. How fitting
that this concert be held on the actual birthday of Frederik Chopin,
(March 1, 1810).

However, it was a snowy and icy Sunday. The concert was to begin at
2:00 pm; but with the weather conditions it was delayed to 2:30 pm. By that
time many people assembled in the concert hall to hear Katarzyna Musial.
A delight when she appeared and started to play. You forgot about the
weather outside. She was magnificent.

Prior to Katarzyna taking the helm at the piano, Marie Hejnosz,
President of the Polish Heritage Society of Philadelphia welcomed
everyone and spoke briefly about the organization and its mission.
Marie introduced Deborah Majka, concert chair and Honorary Consul of
Poland for Southeastern Pennsylvania, who briefly spoke about Katarzyna
and introduced Janusz Sporek, Director of the Marcella Sembrich Women's
Choir. Mr. Sporek was born in the same town in Poland as Katarzyna. He
provided a wide range of information about Katarzyna, her musical
journey and accomplishments.

When Katarzyna, started to play, she exploded with much gesture and such
interpretations of music by Witold Lutoslawski; Zgymunnt Stojowski, and
many more. She also has a CD - Come Dance With Me, in which the
pianist hands pay tribute to the dancer's feet.

After the concert a reception was held, and members of the audience were
treated to a variety of Polish delicacies.

Even though the weather was snowy, icy and not good for traveling, the
Polish Heritage Society of Philadelphia once again excelled with a
wonderful and exceptional concert.